Microsoft Unveils New Surface Devices with AI Enhancements
Introduction
Microsoft has announced two new Surface devices as part of its Copilot+ PCs initiative, featuring advanced hardware and AI software capabilities. These devices, the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop models for 2024, will be available from mid-June.
New Surface Devices
During its Build keynote address, Microsoft introduced the latest additions to the Surface lineup, focusing on integrating AI further into the hardware. The new flagship, the Surface Pro, is a significant part of this push.
Surface Pro
The Surface Pro marks a return to Microsoft’s roots in 2-in-1 devices. According to Microsoft, it is 90% faster than the Surface 9. This tablet-laptop hybrid will be powered by either the Snapdragon X Elite or Snapdragon X Plus, depending on the configuration. It features a 13-inch display, which can be upgraded to an OLED panel, and supports up to three external 4K displays with two USB 4 ports for connectivity. This makes it a strong competitor to Apple’s latest iPad Pro in the “pro-grade tablet” market.
“The tablet-come-laptop will be powered by either the Snapdragon X Elite or Snapdragon X Plus depending on which configuration you opt for, and looks like it has an attractive design with that familiar kickstand.”
Surface Laptop
Microsoft also unveiled a new Surface Laptop, a more conventional device with a sleek design. It offers a 120Hz refresh rate display and comes in two sizes: 13.8-inch and 15-inch.
Copilot+ Features
Alongside the new hardware, Microsoft introduced several new features for its AI assistant, Copilot. These include:
- Recall: Allows you to search for things you remember seeing on your computer without needing to have saved files.
- Cocreator in Paint: Helps you achieve a desired endpoint while creating an image.
- Live Captions: Provides live subtitles for any English-speaking audio coming through your computer’s speakers.
Each of these features adds significant functionality, although their impact on sales remains to be seen.
Availability and Pricing
Both the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop are available for pre-order now from Microsoft. They start at $999 for the most basic versions, offering plenty of options for comparison.
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